World Poetry Day

What is World Poetry Day and how do we celebrate it?

Celebrated on the 21st March, World Poetry Day's purpose is to promote reading, writing, publishing and teaching of poetry worldwide. This is seen as important because poetry engages our emotions, we learn how to express ourselves through literature, this is particularly influential on children. Allowing a reader to connect to a poet and their own minds.

It was originally celebrated on the 15th of October in the 20th century, which was the birthday of the Roman epic poet Virgil. The date for the 21st March was discovered by Unesco in 1999. 

We can celebrate it with 3 simple tips: 

1. A zoom gathering 

Due to Covid, we can celebrate virtually. Get all your friends and family on a zoom call to read your favourite poems. Maybe even a poem that may help one another during these unprecedented times.

2.  Celebrate other cultures 

World Poetry Day aims to celebrate cultural diversity, try and find a poem from another country that brings you inspiration and meaning.

3. Write your own poem

Even if writing is not your forte, jot some ideas down on a notepad, get your thoughts out and see where it takes you. No pressure or expectations, just flow with your own writing and mind. A great way to express yourself and possibly even relieve any tension you may be feeling or any current problems you are facing.

Images from: https://pixabay.com 

Sincerely Madia & Matilda 

International Day of Happiness 2021

 

Image from: https://www.brandingstrategyinsider.com/how-brands-can-support-the-pursuit-of-happiness/#.YBVVEi0RqqA

2020 was a difficult year for everyone - no doubt about that. In 2021, the situation with the pandemic and political issues all around are not promising a much better year. HOWEVER, there are things each of us can do to improve our and our loved ones mindsets and stay optimistic! For the International Day of Happiness 2021, here are some tips and ideas to help you see the brighter side of things.

Don't compare yourself!

It is dangerously easy to start comparing yourself to others, especially in today's world through the Internet. On social media everyone puts on their best front. They show their fancy breakfasts, slim figures and many friends. However, it is important to remember that all of us go through struggles that we do not show online. Instead of thinking that the grass is greener on the other side focus on watering your own grass!

Take on hobbies.

By spending time doing things you love or that teach you new skills you'll find yourself feeling more productive, creative and overall happier!

Image from: https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/hobbies-turn-into-good-side-job/ 

Practice gratefulness!

Try to find joy in the little things in your life - it will open your eyes to how lucky you are to be alive. May it be the fact that you have a roof over your head, a warm meal at the end of the day or a shoulder to cry on. Remind yourself to be grateful and see your life from a different and a lot more positive perspective.

Reach out to people

Everyone has it rough sometimes, so it is important to support each other in any way you can. Sharing your troubles with a true friend, a family member or a significant other can help lift half the trouble off your shoulders. Let go of toxic relationships and focus on the people who truly make you happy.

Do not let other people be your happiness.

Even though the people close to you will definitely play a big part in lifting you up, it is necessary to realise that your happiness does not depend on them! You have to find it in yourself - others cannot fulfill you.

Sincerely Madia & Matilda 

Easter Egg Cocktail

 

Image from: https://www.prima.co.uk/all-recipes/quick-recipes/a38431/creme-egg-cocktail-recipe/ 

It is clear that most of us are missing going out with friends and family for a couple of drinks. Well, to help lift your spirits a little we have picked out an Easter themed cocktail for you to make at home!

What you'll need:

20ml of white rum

20ml of coconut rum

40ml of pineapple juice

60ml of coconut cream

Half a lime

Milk chocolate

Tropical coulis (like mango or passion fruit)

A small mold (Ice-cube tray, egg cup etc)

Cocktail shaker (only if you have one)

Preparations:

A couple of hours before serving pour the tropical coulis into something that can act as a semi-circle mould (ice-cube tray, egg cup etc) and freeze til solid.

Melt the milk chocolate.

Prepare a martini glass by dipping the rim into the melted chocolate and leaving in the fridge to chill until it sets. 

Directions:

To make the cocktail, pour all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker or a blender, fill with ice and shake/blend til chilled.

Strain the liquid into a glass, then pour back into the shaker and strain again into the chilled martini glass.

To serve, remove the egg-shaped frozen coulis and float it in the centre of the drink.

Cheers and happy Easter!

Sincerely Madia & Matilda 

Easter - Bunny Rolls

 

Image from: https://www.fleischmannsyeast.com/recipe/sugar-and-spice-bunnies/

Easter is right around the corner and we at Madia & Matilda found the perfect Easter themed dessert for you and your family to enjoy. Have your kids join in and try making these cute bunny rolls together so that you have something delicious to snack on after a big egg hunt!

What you'll need for the dough:

2-1/2 to 2-3/4 cups all purpose flour 

3 tablespoons sugar 

1 (2-1/4 tsp.) yeast

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 

1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg 

2 teaspoons freshly grated orange peel 

1/2 teaspoon salt 

1/2 cup milk 

1/4 cup water 

3 tablespoons of butter 

1 egg 

1/3 cup currants/raisins 

What you'll need for the sugar glaze:

1/2 cup sifted powdered sugar 

1 tablespoon milk 

1/2 teaspoon freshly grated orange peel 

1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 

Directions:

Combine 1 or 1/2 cups of flour, sugar, undissolved yeast, spices, orange peel and salt in a large mixer bowl.

Heat milk, water and butter until very warm. Gradually add to the flour mixture.

Beat 2 minutes at medium speed of electric mixer, scraping bowl occasionally.

Add egg and 1/2 cup flour. Beat 2 minutes at high speed.

Stir in enough remaining flour to make a soft dough.

Knead on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.

Set aside 10 currants or raisins for the bunny’s eyes. Knead remaining into the dough.

Divide the dough into 5 equal pieces. Roll each to a 24-inch rope.

Divide each rope into 1 (13-inch), 1 (6-inch), 2 (2-inch), and 1 (1-inch) strips.

Coil 13-inch strip to make body; coil 6-inch strip to make head.

 Attach head to the body; pinch to seal.

Shape 2 (2-inch) strips into ears and remaining 1-inch strip into tail.

 Attach to the body and head. 

 Place on 2 greased baking sheets.

Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour.

Bake at 190 degrees for 13 to 16 minutes or until done. Let cool.

For the sugar glaze: stir all ingredients until smooth.

 Drizzle the bunnies with the sugar glaze.

Lightly press reserved currants into heads for eyes.

Tip! The bunny parts will "cling together" as the dough rises and bakes. Do not place more than 4 bunnies on a baking sheet.

This one might be a bit longer that our usual recipes but trust us - it is so worth it!

Happy Easter!

Sincerely Madia & Matilda 

Mother's Day Gift Ideas

https://www.nbcnews.com/shopping/gift-guides/best-mothers-day-gifts-n1191186 

This year has been tough on everyone, but with most schools and kindergartens closed, mother's have had a lot more on their plate than usual. And with Mother's Day right around the corner you might want to start thinking about a special gift for a special mother. From the collections at Madia & Matilda you are sure to find something that will show your appreciation for all of the hard work and patience she has had both this year and before. Check some ideas out below!

The Abbie Rose Linen Dress

Invite your mother out for dinner and help her feel beautiful with a new dress!

https://www.madiamatilda.co.uk/allclothing-madiamatilda/Abbie-Rose-Linen-Dress-p69392943

The Mazy Paisley Silhouette Earrings

She'll be sure to think of you every time she puts on these earrings. 

https://www.madiamatilda.co.uk/allclothing-madiamatilda/Mazy-Paisley-Silhouette-Earrings-Jewellery-p158524143

The Bathing Rituals Gift Set

Every mother needs to be pampered every now and then!

https://www.madiamatilda.co.uk/allclothing-madiamatilda/Bathing-Rituals-Giftset-p79366587 

The Gold Leaf Ring Dish

As well as making sure she never misplaces her rings, this ring dish will also look lovely on your mothers night cabinet.

https://www.madiamatilda.co.uk/allclothing-madiamatilda/Gold-Leaf-Ring-Dish-Home-p125103464 

We at Madia & Matilda wish all mothers a happy Mother's Day and hope everyone looking for gift ideas found something they think their mum will love from this list!

Sincerely Madia & Matilda 

International Woman's day

International Woman's day is a significant and focal celebratory day that encourages and promotes the movement for women's rights. It is an international day, therefore, everyone around the world can get involved. It aims to erase discrimination and misogyny against women, helping gain equal partipication in global development, such as work pay. It brings attention to policymakers for gender equality and gender parity.

The first International Women's day took place on the 19th March in 1911, as it commemorated the day the Prussian King introduced votes for women in 1848, a huge success for countries such as Germany and Switzerland. Founded by women, the date was then moved to the 8th March in 1913 as it convened with the first conference on women in Mexico City in 1913.

The International Women's Day logo is famously purple and white, and features the symbol of Venus. The ancient Italian goddess, Venus, is associated with love and femininity. Hence the book, Men Are from Mars and Women Are from Venus, written by John Gray.

Here at Madia & Matilda we will be raising a glass for inspirational women across the globe, spread love to your neighbours, family, friends this March. Recognise the fight that women have bravely been choosing for so many years, giving us the right to vote, for equality, for the opportunity that we once did not have. We stand together as the incredible women we all are!

Images from: https://pixabay.com/images/search/venus/

Sincerely Madia & Matilda 

Transparency

 

At current times people are becoming more aware of the negative impact that fashion (and especially fast fashion) has on the environment. . 

Customers are thus looking to play their part in supporting brands that are working on decreasing their carbon footprint and trying to be more green. However, some fashion brands can deceive their customers by doing something called “greenwashing” by claiming that their products, policies or aims are better for the Earth than other brands'. They might give “green-sounding” names to products that are actually extremely polluting in hopes of attracting environmentally conscious customers. However, this type of false advertising can backfire when the brand's claims do not match up with their actual environmental engagement

That is why here at Madia & Matilda we believe in being completely transparent with our clients. We work to better the Earth and want the people who support our brand to be able to know exactly how we are doing our part for that.

Sincerely Madia & Matilda 

How consumers can become zero waste

Becoming a zero waste consumer is essential, and you're definitely making a huge positive impact on the environment and the world. So don't worry, every single individual makes a huge difference. Keep going; it really is working! The zero waste generation is a big deal, and it is encouraging communities to get on board. 

The world is beginning to embrace sustainability and jump on the zero waste movement. Remarkebly after David Attenborough's Blue Planet II in 2017, a follow up on the 2001 documentary. Attenborough tells the compelling stories of the world's deepwater inhabitants, creating an irreversible relationship between the earth and mankind. Other inspirational television such as the movie A Plastic Ocean in 2016, where Craig Leeson reveals the terrifying impact of pollution and the vast amount of plastic materials dumped on the earth's soil. 

More and more sustainable products are beginning to take the market, with more entrepreneurs siding with zero waste and companies discovering how easy it is to contribute. We love that at Madia & Matilda, we can rent clothing; this is a great way to produce less waste and a cheaper alternative to buying clothes you will only wear for a specific occasion or event!

So how can you be a zero waste consumer? 

It's pretty easy and very possible. Here, let us help you get started if you haven't already! At Madia & Matilda we pride ourselves on our sustainable ethics, as a little goes a long way. 

Check out our sustainable ethics at : https://www.madiamatilda.co.uk/sustainable-matters 

First of all, have a clear mindset. Sometimes we simply cannot be bothered to do the little things, such as recycling or being mindful of waste. That's understandable; we are only human. However, we can change this mindset by embedding zero waste routines into our daily lives just like any other activity, that way it does not become an 'extra' task; it just becomes normality. If you make it normal, it encourages others around you to do the same. Make zero waste lifestyles something that should be a reality and a necessity. 

Take a look and do some research if possible, to inform yourself more on the zero waste movement; look at TerraCycle for inspiration. 

Another great idea is to buy your shopping in bulk, or buy from local produces that do not use over excessive packaging like the supermarkets. However, fingers crossed that supermarkets will be eliminating plastic soon to come, and we have high hopes for this change. For example, Iceland has vowed to eliminate plastic packaging on its own products by the latest 2023. With these encouraging statistics, other supermarkets have jumped on board such as Morrisons, they are in the middle of trialing plastic bags into paper bags and hopes by 2025 to have mastered this task.  

Electric cars are also becoming very popular, and they emit fewer greenhouse gases than petrol cars being run by electricity. Many companies are hoping to switch to electric within the next decade, such as Ford. So, maybe consider switching from petrol to electric, or even hybrid for the current moment. Reducing your amount of petrol stops air pollution from increasing. 

Another great tip is always carrying bags in your car, in case you go shopping last minute and need a bag! I know it is easy to forget, this way if you have them already there, what is really stopping us. If you are clothes shopping, take a look in your wardrobe and see if you really need everything or you can pass it on or recycle. More garments are bought than ever in 2020 and 2021, with a statistic of 57% of these materials going to landfill, and 35% of materials in the supply chain also being put to waste. Make sure you read up on where you are shopping and shop for sustainable brands like us! Madia & Matilda. 

Image from: https://www.commonobjective.co/article/fashion-and-waste-an-uneasy-relationship 

It is important to become part of the zero waste movement, simply because we are the change!

Images from: https://pixabay.com 

                                                    

Sincerely Madia & Matilda

Creating positive habits in lockdown

Since we are now in the third UK lockdown, we have experienced life indoors and there are many habits both positive and negative we may have experienced.

Here at Madia & Matilda, we believe it is important to learn and create positive habits that we can use in and after this lockdown experience.

1. One hour a day for a form of creative meditation 

Try not to be put off by the word 'meditation' all we mean is using some form of art therapy, this can be anything from painting, yoga, cooking, baking, journaling, a relaxing bath, or a nap. If you schedule this into your day every day, not only will it break up your day but it will also allow you to slow down, relieve anxiety and stress, take a break from any worries you may feel.

2.  Get outdoors and embrace nature

I think the first reason for us all getting back out into nature after the winter months being so cold, we are finally starting to see a bit of sunshine. Lockdown feels more isolating when the weather is bad, and now things are starting to look up. Getting outside does not need to be a lockdown routine, it can be part of your new normal. Learning to switch off from the inside, social media, and television and take time to breathe in the fresh air every day. Lockdown has encouraged us to increase our time spent outdoors, supporting mental health and getting some Vitamin D from the sun.

3. Physical and mental health 

10 minutes a day or more dedicated to a physical workout, whether that means stretching in the garden, watching a workout youtube video or learning how to make healthy juices and smoothies. Try to take this discipline and turn it into a routine, keep moving and learning.

4. Appreciate the world around us 

Now that we cannot travel frequently or visit places we once loved, it is time to appreciate the little things and the world's beauty. The lockdown has actually caused less airbourne pollution, and many destinations are now visible such as the Himalayas are a lot clearer than ever before. You can take virtual tours of these fantastic destinations and write them on your bucket list to visit once travel and leisure are possible again. 

5. Time

Time goes so quickly, and usually when we are living our day to day lives we are busy working, socialising and never truely have the time to just be at one with ourselves. all this time we have been given, use it and appreciate it.

Images from: https://pixabay.com 

Sincerely Madia & Matilda 

The Problem With Online Shopping

Image from: Retviews

With lockdown restrictions still going strong everywhere around the world and clothing stores being closed more and more people are turning to online shopping. It can be a whole lot of fun - you get to buy clothes without ever getting up from the couch and dream of where you'll be wearing them once we're free to travel again. However, many do not realise the massive impact their orders have on the environment. Your new pair of jeans or a cute bag play a part in the huge amount of plastic and leftover fabrics that end up in the ocean and landfills. Each online order has to be properly packaged in order for it to not get damaged during shipping. For that the easiest option for brands is to use plastic. Now imagine hundreds of thousands of orders from shoppers all over the world, each of them being sent out in plastic packaging. Not to mention the leftover fabrics that are thrown out instead of being used for new items! At Madia & Matilda we always work to become more environmentally friendly - from using recycled packaging to offering the option of carbon neutral delivery. We also use sustainable fibers in our clothing and make sure that all leftover fabrics get reused. Every step of our clothing making process is thoroughly thought about! Check out our collections and help out the environment!

Sincerely Madia & Matilda 

Easy to follow lockdown challenge

 

Whilst we are in lockdown, why not follow a challenge with us to keep yourself feeling entertained and organised?

Here is our 5 task challenge!

              Set yourself 5 tasks you wish to complete, they can be anything and there is no pressure.

Some of our ideas..

1. Clean out that wardrobe...

We have all been there, the cluttered wardrobe is no secret, set yourself a task to throw out the old and bring in the new! It is oddly satisfying to sort your clothes out in colours, seasons or however you wish to be organised. Also, buying the same hanger for all your clothes looks great.

2.  Switch socials for podcasts

We can all become consumed with social media to the point where it distracts us from our daily goals. We suggest trying the 1 hour free social media morning when you wake up, looking at a blue screen on your phone as soon as you wake up is not only bad for your health but also distracts you from your daily routine. Try waking up and listening to a podcast that interests you, this allows you to complete your daily tasks but also learn new things. You can find podcasts on Spotify and Youtube for inspiration.

3. Write yourself a letter

Dear future me... 

Give yourself some advice, anything you want to get off your chest, any thoughts and feelings and also future desires and goals. It is really healthy to express your emotions through literature and is a great excerise if you are feeling down.

4. Cooking!

Did you know that baking and cooking are actually forms of artistic meditation? Meditation does not have to be your stereotypical sit down in silence expression. Cooking allows your mind to focus and lets you be rid of outside thoughts. Even if it is not your thing (it certainly was not mine at first) challenge yourself! Find something you have always wanted to try and keep at it until you perfect it to your liking. Focus on creating rather than stressing. 

5. Pamper pamper pamper

Face food masks, self manicure and a hot bubble bath always go down a treat. How about challenge yourself to let go and give yourself some self-love? We will be!

Images from: https://pixabay.com/images/search/wardrobe/

Sincerely Madia & Matilda 

8 social media accounts to follow

 

Since the global pandemic, the digital world has become used more over the last few months than ever before. Popular social media apps such as Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter are booming. We thought since we are all on social media at the moment, we have come up with some great sustainable accounts that you can follow and browse their useful content. 

Instagram: 

@besmacc 

Besma is a lifestyle blogger who is inspired by sustainable fashion and living a more eco-friendly lifestyle. She shares great posts about sustainable brands and tips.

@mrspress

Clare Press is the first sustainability editor at Vogue magazine and always has sustainable fashion go to's and information that is useful for eco-friendly fashion.

@Dominiquedrakeford 

Dominique is known for her blog series and sustainable style and culture which she promotes and explores on her Instagram page.

Twitter: 

@sustaincities

Sustainable Cities Collective is a sustainable community for leaders of urban and metropolitan areas, providing resources for people who connected to sustainable development.

@greenbiztweets

Green Biz tweets are known for being a Twitter account that is based on green ideas and shares these with the public to inspire and educate.

@sustainbrands

Sustainable Brands focus on tweeting about inspiring brands to lean towards sustainability to encourage an eco-friendly future in fashion and lifestyle.

TikTok:

Tik Tok has become increasingly popular since the global pandemic came about, it is a quick and easy way to access social media posts.

@acteevism 

Megan McSherry is known for being one of the first sustainable TikTokers, she advocates for change and works in sustainable campaigns, she uses her platform to educate people on how to become conscious consumers.

@stan

Tristan Detwiler utilises his platform to talk about and promote upcycling of clothing, sharing his story, and inspiring others.

Pinterest boards to follow

Restitchstance 

They show where to shop for eco & ethical fashion, educating readers on what fast fashion is and what fair trade and ethical clothing means for us as consumers.

Splendid Moon | All About Sustainability 

They show us where to buy sustainable kitchen and home products, working on getting rid of plastic and harmful materials in the house.

Going Zero Waste: eco-friendly lifestyle tips, recipes, and DIYs 

This board is great for giving general, daily life, and sustainable living tips such as what you should stop buying and begin making and products that have zero waste to buy and use in your home. 

Images from: https://pixabay.com/images/search/tik%20tok/

Sincerely Madia & Matilda